Who would have thought that cleaning could rival the thrill of driving a race car? Have you ever fantasized about the exhilaration of zooming around a racetrack? The rush of power and freedom that comes with it? If you can’t get your hands on a Formula 1 vehicle, you might just want to grab your vacuum cleaner and head to your living room for a similar experience.
A recent study conducted by Ipsos for Mr. Clean has uncovered that the body reacts to cleaning much like it does to watching racecar driving, with a surge of adrenaline and a boost in mood. The Cleaning Rush Study measured participants’ Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) and Heart Rate (HR)—automatic physical reactions that can’t be controlled—after they engaged in various cleaning tasks. The results indicated that they felt emotional enthusiasm and excitement akin to what one might experience during high-energy activities such as car racing.
But that’s not all. Every single participant in the study agreed that cleaning brings peace of mind and a sense of control over their surroundings, leading to a rewarding feeling upon completion. For anyone with kids, pets, or a partner, maintaining a clean home can seem like an impossible feat. Yet, even if a tidy space lasts only a brief moment, those minutes can offer some of the most tranquil times of the day. Because, let’s face it, this is what we’ve come to cherish as adults.
The findings also revealed that 82 percent of participants enjoyed admiring their freshly cleaned spaces, while 81 percent felt a sense of achievement after finishing their cleaning tasks. Moreover, participants reported feeling more determined, inspired, and proud, and less jittery or anxious. It’s no wonder the term “rage cleaning” has become popular.
This isn’t the first study to connect cleanliness with improved mood. Numerous studies have shown that individuals who maintain clean homes tend to be healthier and more active compared to those who don’t. In fact, the cleanliness of a home is a stronger predictor of physical health than the walkability of the neighborhood. Another study indicated that women who described their homes as “cluttered” or filled with “unfinished projects” were more prone to feelings of depression and fatigue compared to those who viewed their homes as “restful” and “restorative.” Additionally, cluttered environments have been linked to elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
One survey by the National Sleep Foundation found that those who make their beds each morning are 19 percent more likely to report consistently good sleep. Who knew that such a simple act could have such a significant impact?
While not many would call cleaning enjoyable, it’s hard to deny the positive emotions that arise afterward. And if we can tell our kids that cleaning their rooms is as thrilling as driving a race car, perhaps they might actually lend a hand to discover what the excitement is all about. For more on parenting and effective home practices, check out our other blog post on home insemination kits, which offers great insights into family planning.
In summary, cleaning not only enhances our living spaces but also boosts our moods, offering a gratifying and empowering experience. As we navigate the chaos of family life, recognizing the psychological benefits of a clean home can inspire us to embrace the process, making it a rewarding endeavor.